Beyond node degree: evaluating AS topology models

Abstract

Many models have been proposed to generate Internet Autonomous System
(AS) topologies, most of which make structural assumptions about the AS
graph. In this paper we compare AS topology generation models with
several observed AS topologies. In contrast to most previous works, we
avoid making assumptions about which topological properties are
important to characterize the AS topology. Our analysis shows that,
although matching degree-based properties, the existing AS topology
generation models fail to capture the complexity of the local
interconnection structure between ASs. Furthermore, we use BGP data from
multiple vantage points to show that additional measurement locations
significantly affect local structure properties, such as clustering and
node centrality. Degree-based properties, however, are not notably
affected by additional measurements locations. These observations are
particularly valid in the core. The shortcomings of AS topology
generation models stems from an underestimation of the complexity of the
connectivity in the core caused by inappropriate use of BGP data.